AFP, TOKYOTokyo’s benchmark Nikkei 225 finished more than 18 percent higher over the year, bolstered recently by hopes for progress in US and China trade talks. The broader TOPIX gained more than 15 percent over the year, as the Tokyo markets close until Monday next week. Over the past few weeks, Japanese shares have enjoyed sizable gains, following US stocks to new highs and reflecting investor relief over a recent thaw in US-China trade ties. “This will also affect prospects for the US-China trade negotiations.”The Nikkei yesterday lost 0.76 percent and the TOPIX fell 0.68 percent as investors cashed in ahead of the New Year holidays, with thin trading. Elsewhere in Asia, markets were mixed with activity thinning as investors wind down for the end of the year, with lingering optimism over easing US-China trade tensions driving some gains.
